Print and Cut Out Template

To create an oversized rat, have a local copy shop print out a 2' x 2' version of this template. Using scissors, cut out pattern.

Tip: If you'd prefer, you can create smaller versions of the rat using templates printed onto standard printer paper.

Cut Out the Rat Template

To create an oversized rat, have a local copy shop print out a 2' x 2' version of this template. Using scissors, cut out pattern.

Trace Template

Use a pencil to trace the rat template onto a 2' x 2' piece of plywood.

Trace Template

Use a pencil to trace the rat template onto a 2' x 2' piece of plywood.

Cut Rat Out

Use a jigsaw equipped with a fine-toothed wood-cutting blade to cut the rat out by slowly following your pencil lines.

Cut Rat Out

Use a jigsaw equipped with a fine-toothed wood-cutting blade to cut the rat out by slowly following your pencil lines.

Create a Hole for the Eye

Create a starter hole in the center of the eye using an extra-large drill bit. Insert the jigsaw in the drilled hole and continue cutting out the eye.

Drill Rat Eyes

Create a starter hole in the center of the eye using an extra-large drill bit.

Saw Hole for Eye

Insert the jigsaw in the drilled hole and continue cutting out the eye.

Attach Stake

Apply construction adhesive to the upper portion of one wood landscaping stake, and attach the stake to the back side of the rat's legs (Image 1). Flip the rat over, and use a pneumatic nailer to further secure the stake to the rat from the front side (Image 2). Flip the rat over again, and hammer down the ends of any nails that are sticking through the back (Image 3).

Glue Support onto Halloween Rat

Apply construction adhesive to the upper portion of one wood landscaping stake, and attach the stake to the back side of the rat's legs

Attach Supports Onto Rat

Flip the rat over again, and hammer down the ends of any nails that are sticking through the back.

Hammer Wood Supports onto Halloween Rat

Flip the rat over again, and hammer down the ends of any nails that are sticking through the back.

Sand and Paint

Use a sanding block to smooth rough edges, then coat both the front and back sides of the rat and stake in gray exterior paint and allow to dry.

Sand Rat Before Painting

Use a sanding block to smooth rough edges

Paint Your Halloween Rat

Coat both the front and back sides of the rat and stake in gray exterior paint and allow to dry.

Place Rat in Yard

Select an outdoor location for the rat and use a second wood stake to drive a shallow starter hole into the ground. Remove the stake, then firmly push the rat's stake down into the hole.

Place Rat in Ground

Select an outdoor location for the rat and use a second wood stake to drive a shallow starter hole into the ground. Remove the stake, then firmly push the rat's stake down into the hole.